1.5 Network Topologies

1.5 Network Topologies

1. STAR NETWORK

   • ADV.
     • if break in one of the connections, only that COM affected
       • DISADV.
         • if switch breaks, all COM affected
   • HUB
     • broadcast traffic to all COM
       • security + bandwidth lower
     • SWITCH
       • traffic only directed to COM intended

2. MESH NETWORK

   • disadvantages
     • expensive
       • more cabling+switches
         • impractical for large networks
   • computers directly connected to each other
     • if connection break, traffic redirects
       • if switch goes down, computer loses connection
         • additional protocols needed for route-finding between switches needed

3. PARTIAL MESH NETWORK

   • multiple connections
     • not connected to every router on internet

4. ENCRYPTION

   • Secure Socket Layer
     • decrypt data using key
       • method of scrambling data

5. WIFI

   • ADV.
     • users can move around freely
       • easier to set up+cheaper
         • convenient to use
           • can handle large no. of users
     • DISADV.
       • slower speed than wired
         • relies on signal strength to WAP
           • signal can be obstructed
             • less secure

6. PACKETS

   • IP Address of receiver+sender
     • INTERNET PROTOCOL
       • a set of rules for a computer
         • how computers should communicate
           • manages
             • speed of transmission
               • size of message
                 • error checking
       • e.g.
         • TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol
           • HTTP (Hyper Text Transfer Protocol)
             • FTP (File Transfer Protocol)
               • POP (Post office Protocol)
                 • SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol)
                   • IMAP (Internet Message Access Protocol)
   • packet switching
     • process of exchanging packets

7. ETHERNET

   • a wired connection
     • data can be transmitted at a faster speed